Written By Perronne
Aug. 9, 2018, 11:37 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Another restoration accomplished. I'm rather proud of this one - not because of anything I did, but because of how little damage it has sustained over the century or more before I found it. All I really had to do was replace the strings, which was easily accomplished in a city the size of Arx, and clean off some of the salt damage. I think it will still play quite beautifully, and although I find the ferocious motif somewhat offputting, I think there might be someone who might enjoy it. Maybe. A very hostile bard, perhaps? There must be one! Somewhere. With lots of money.
Anyway, it is another completed project, and another piece of inventory that gets me closer to cleaning out my storage in various places. It displays more nicely in the shop, anyway.
Anyway, it is another completed project, and another piece of inventory that gets me closer to cleaning out my storage in various places. It displays more nicely in the shop, anyway.
Written By Cullen
Aug. 9, 2018, 10:03 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
And so the announcement becomes public, the courtship official. I am truly excited for these next three months to get to know Marquessa Quenia all the better, as she has been nothing but quite charming, intelligent, and witty company thus far. Having had the chance to get to know members of her family, I feel truly as though the Igniseris will welcome me quite with open arms when the time comes. I fully expect to have to spend the next three months having to prove myself, given the unfortunate circumstances of the past - but I am rather stubborn and shall not be dissuaded, as she is clearly a rare woman who can see me for what I am. Truly, the Gods have blessed me, and the next three months should be quite the voyage of discovery - and answering a great many questions!
And Lord Fecundo - the debate shall be settled by the end of the three months, I am sure of it!
And Lord Fecundo - the debate shall be settled by the end of the three months, I am sure of it!
Written By Denica
Aug. 9, 2018, 9:46 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
I suppose if one casts a wide enough net, they will manage a catch in even the most barren of waters. It's just unfortunate for the fish that get swept up in its wake, discarded and unwanted, the casualties of indiscriminate search. All for the want of the elusive mermaid, but does she even really exist?
Written By Lucita
Aug. 9, 2018, 9:28 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Aiden
You'll be a good parent. I've seen the love and kindness the affection and the firm but gentle guidance you give even my six month old twins.
Written By Perronne
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:51 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Laric
I'm told it's sort of the done thing to write about your impressions of specific people in the white journals, here in Arx. For the last decade, or almost, I haven't really stayed in one place long enough form specific impressions about people, outside of "haggles well" or "is a pompous jerk, but pays her bills on time", and those aren't really things you write in journals to leave behind.
But I guess I'm writing an impression of Prince Laric Grayson, Master of Questions, because he stands out, although I've only ever really spoken to him in person once. He's not overly familiar, he doesn't offer handouts for no reason, and he seems aware of his power and why someone might be a bit wary of it without finding offense in that or trying to dismiss it. I don't know if he's a good Master of Questions. I'm not qualified to judge. I don't even really know what he does! But if I had to describe a good noble, someone who I felt comfortable with the power of life and death over me, or people I care about, I think it might look a lot like him.
His lizard is also really interesting. Not a euphemism!
But I guess I'm writing an impression of Prince Laric Grayson, Master of Questions, because he stands out, although I've only ever really spoken to him in person once. He's not overly familiar, he doesn't offer handouts for no reason, and he seems aware of his power and why someone might be a bit wary of it without finding offense in that or trying to dismiss it. I don't know if he's a good Master of Questions. I'm not qualified to judge. I don't even really know what he does! But if I had to describe a good noble, someone who I felt comfortable with the power of life and death over me, or people I care about, I think it might look a lot like him.
His lizard is also really interesting. Not a euphemism!
Written By Fecundo
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:31 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Cullen
Well...what I really want to know is if the dreaded steelsilk versus fireweave issue will be settled over the next three months....and will you shave the beard for the wedding?
All kidding aside, I wish both Quenia and Cullen good fortune in this union.
All kidding aside, I wish both Quenia and Cullen good fortune in this union.
Written By Quenia
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:24 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Thus, the object of my earlier posts to the journals, about being truly frightened, has come to pass and announcements have been made. In spite of fears, which I'm certain many can understand considering my last fiancee was executed for treason, I truly look forward to moving forward and getting to know Lord Cullen. I didn't expect to be put at ease so easily, not after Aurelian, but speaking to him over these last few months has been a generally pleasant experience.
I just hope my family and friends don't put him through the ringer too much over these next three months. Tomorrow night's dinner ought to be an interesting experience for the both of us.
I just hope my family and friends don't put him through the ringer too much over these next three months. Tomorrow night's dinner ought to be an interesting experience for the both of us.
Written By Fecundo
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:17 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
A remarkably complex young woman with the bearing and wisdom of a warrior, but a definite mix of delicate and savage beauty. I only wish she had not spooked when she did. I may have to seek her out, as well as he companion. There is a curiosity as we had just started comparing styles and choices of weapon when she departed. And if the talk of skill of her companion is as interesting, then it shall be worthwhile, indeed.
Written By Bianca
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:15 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Arik
I thought long on the scenarios posed and in the end came to the conclusion that as the world is an ever changing thing by Lagoma's grace there is no definitive answer, but only that which can be made in the here and now based on the information known.
At first thought my reply to the posed scenario ("If Godsworn can be recalled in order to ensure the continuation of a Noble Family") is no. But that is a rushed assumption based only upon the black and white of the posed scenario itself. Would the Gods seek the end of one of the Peerage's hallowed bloodlines? I don't believe so. So then is the answer yes and the Faith would release a Godsworn from their oaths? Again it seems a matter reliant on the finest detail of the circumstances in which the House came to be in such a state. Those details including if the Godsworn in question has posed request of release to the Faith. If they have not, then in my heart and mind the Faith would never demand a Godsworn to forego their vows to the Gods in favor of the matters of mortal men. But if they have? Another variable to take into consideration. Another weight to be added to the scale of decision-making.
The second scenario falls again into the realm of grey area. It all depends on circumstance. Was the child brought into this world before or after the oaths were taken? Was the parent aware of the existence of this child before or after their oaths? Was it a matter of frivolous irresponsibility? Or simply being unaware of an act of passion's outcome predating the promises made to the Gods? As for the child, the Faith would never abandon an innocent when given the opportunity to act, but that action very well may not be to release a Godsworn in favor of parental obligations. Conversely in very rare occasions, the Faith may indeed allow a Godsworn to take on parental obligations released from their vows. Again it is a question of circumstance.
In any outcome I would wager a fair bit of penitent acts would be expected and those acts are at the discretion of the Faith, ranging in severity from a blessed departure and fasting to being named an Oathbreaker and spending the rest of one’s days amidst the Silent Reflections or even potentially execution.
The last question I can only answer from a personal standpoint. "Is this because of the amount of those sworn to the Gods or would the Gods rather we care for those we owe blood and hearth too before them?"
To me these questions are of mortal responsibility, something the Gods are not troubled by nor concerned with. The Gods are aspirations. Something which we strive to emulate in our daily lives as the faithful. They exist beyond our utter understanding and hence to answer for them in this case without the tremendous amount of variables each individual scenario would entail along with a hefty amount of prayer I fear would be folly on my part.
As of late, many have come with questions regarding taking one's oaths to the Gods. Some who are considering it, some who are curious about what it entails and yet others who simply wish a good debate and this is a current hot topic. In the end I feel the matter rests in the heart of the Godsworn themselves. Each of us are individuals with our own motivations, passions and callings. To be released from one's oaths would need to begin in the heart of the Godsworn in question and be discerned by prayer and devotional acts before even presenting the possibility of release to the hierarchy of the Faith for consideration. The process would begin again within the hierarchy of the Faith, prayer and devotion and through that we would find the answer and every reply in it of itself would be individual to the particular situation involved.
Sadly in the end I realize that I have given no definitive reply, asking only more questions, but isn't that how we truly discern truth? Heavy scrutiny and an open mind? I hope at least the response I’ve given encourages any debating the decision of joining the Godsworn to heavily consider their motivations before making such a commitment. As seen in previous examples, even if one is released from their oaths it is a heavy burden to bear and they will face final judgment for their choices in this life upon return to the Wheel. The Queen of Endings shall determine if such a failing to uphold one’s oaths to the Gods will withhold them from another opportunity to return to Aion as a reborn soul with a new story to be written.
At first thought my reply to the posed scenario ("If Godsworn can be recalled in order to ensure the continuation of a Noble Family") is no. But that is a rushed assumption based only upon the black and white of the posed scenario itself. Would the Gods seek the end of one of the Peerage's hallowed bloodlines? I don't believe so. So then is the answer yes and the Faith would release a Godsworn from their oaths? Again it seems a matter reliant on the finest detail of the circumstances in which the House came to be in such a state. Those details including if the Godsworn in question has posed request of release to the Faith. If they have not, then in my heart and mind the Faith would never demand a Godsworn to forego their vows to the Gods in favor of the matters of mortal men. But if they have? Another variable to take into consideration. Another weight to be added to the scale of decision-making.
The second scenario falls again into the realm of grey area. It all depends on circumstance. Was the child brought into this world before or after the oaths were taken? Was the parent aware of the existence of this child before or after their oaths? Was it a matter of frivolous irresponsibility? Or simply being unaware of an act of passion's outcome predating the promises made to the Gods? As for the child, the Faith would never abandon an innocent when given the opportunity to act, but that action very well may not be to release a Godsworn in favor of parental obligations. Conversely in very rare occasions, the Faith may indeed allow a Godsworn to take on parental obligations released from their vows. Again it is a question of circumstance.
In any outcome I would wager a fair bit of penitent acts would be expected and those acts are at the discretion of the Faith, ranging in severity from a blessed departure and fasting to being named an Oathbreaker and spending the rest of one’s days amidst the Silent Reflections or even potentially execution.
The last question I can only answer from a personal standpoint. "Is this because of the amount of those sworn to the Gods or would the Gods rather we care for those we owe blood and hearth too before them?"
To me these questions are of mortal responsibility, something the Gods are not troubled by nor concerned with. The Gods are aspirations. Something which we strive to emulate in our daily lives as the faithful. They exist beyond our utter understanding and hence to answer for them in this case without the tremendous amount of variables each individual scenario would entail along with a hefty amount of prayer I fear would be folly on my part.
As of late, many have come with questions regarding taking one's oaths to the Gods. Some who are considering it, some who are curious about what it entails and yet others who simply wish a good debate and this is a current hot topic. In the end I feel the matter rests in the heart of the Godsworn themselves. Each of us are individuals with our own motivations, passions and callings. To be released from one's oaths would need to begin in the heart of the Godsworn in question and be discerned by prayer and devotional acts before even presenting the possibility of release to the hierarchy of the Faith for consideration. The process would begin again within the hierarchy of the Faith, prayer and devotion and through that we would find the answer and every reply in it of itself would be individual to the particular situation involved.
Sadly in the end I realize that I have given no definitive reply, asking only more questions, but isn't that how we truly discern truth? Heavy scrutiny and an open mind? I hope at least the response I’ve given encourages any debating the decision of joining the Godsworn to heavily consider their motivations before making such a commitment. As seen in previous examples, even if one is released from their oaths it is a heavy burden to bear and they will face final judgment for their choices in this life upon return to the Wheel. The Queen of Endings shall determine if such a failing to uphold one’s oaths to the Gods will withhold them from another opportunity to return to Aion as a reborn soul with a new story to be written.
Written By Macda
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:04 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Well I don't know why the king praised me, Scholar. Does he need a reason? I'm both awesome and his cousin. Wait... are you writing this down? Look, I don't need prompts for journals. I already came here with something.
After spending a bit of time at the Grotto with Liara, I went to visit Lou. Yes, Princess Lou, Pathfinder of the Society of Explorers and all that. It was just to find out if she had something to relieve some boredom and stress with. She offered me a bar brawl, which would have been good... but then she suckered me into taking charge of an expedition. How does that even happen? So i guess I'm planning to go to Darkwater soon.
Also, I think Lou's getting soft. I gave her a hug and she didn't creak. I'm not getting weaker, so she's got more padding. Maybe Mason's feeding her too much. I'll have to talk to him.
After spending a bit of time at the Grotto with Liara, I went to visit Lou. Yes, Princess Lou, Pathfinder of the Society of Explorers and all that. It was just to find out if she had something to relieve some boredom and stress with. She offered me a bar brawl, which would have been good... but then she suckered me into taking charge of an expedition. How does that even happen? So i guess I'm planning to go to Darkwater soon.
Also, I think Lou's getting soft. I gave her a hug and she didn't creak. I'm not getting weaker, so she's got more padding. Maybe Mason's feeding her too much. I'll have to talk to him.
Written By Cullen
Aug. 9, 2018, 8:03 a.m.(5/13/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Astraea
I finally got the chance today to talk to Dame Astraea about Faith and family, knighthood and devotion, and it was an endlessly fascinating conversation. An unusually warm, humble, and forthright sort who was happy to answer my many - as usual - questions, and become another of the Godsworn to inspire me. Culminating in a spar to honor Gloria, it was truly the sort of occasion that can put one in a cheerful mood with words of wisdom to live by. A truly gracious soul.
Written By Charlaine
Aug. 9, 2018, 12:55 a.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
I have paid a visit to Lord Fredrik Redtyde. He strikes me as a very rational man with high etiquette and a kind heart. I admire his devotion to his family and knowledge. One should have seen my eyes when the man brought all those books about economics!..
He said I can take my time reading on them. I was never too interested into numbers, but once I started... a book after book... NUMBERS CAN BE INTERESTING!
I actually understand the value of knowing the art of economics now. I guess It's easy when one has a very good tutor. One more book is remaining. I will finish it and then pay a second visit to Lord Fredrik Redtyde. Maybe I will be able to meet his daughter this time.
He said I can take my time reading on them. I was never too interested into numbers, but once I started... a book after book... NUMBERS CAN BE INTERESTING!
I actually understand the value of knowing the art of economics now. I guess It's easy when one has a very good tutor. One more book is remaining. I will finish it and then pay a second visit to Lord Fredrik Redtyde. Maybe I will be able to meet his daughter this time.
Written By Tessa
Aug. 9, 2018, 12:46 a.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
The best people are the ones who give you exactly what you want without you having to ask them.
Written By Richard
Aug. 9, 2018, 12:09 a.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
These recent days have been quite complicated. There seems to be a strange disease in Arx. Seems like it gets transferred by bites and scratches. The effects of the disease seems to be high fever, increased aggression and seems to lead to a coma. The disease is causing the veins near the head and neck to look purple. Seems its a phlegmatic condition. I suggested some alternate treatments but will do them where required.
Written By Bashira
Aug. 9, 2018, 12:05 a.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
I was going to go to the Masquerade, but my hearts not in it at the moment. I sold the outfit and had Caspian donate the money to Thrax for Thursday's Child. I should probably focus on other things for the moment as it is.
Written By Coraline
Aug. 8, 2018, 11:33 p.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Vanora
I wish to state that the Grimhall event was lovely, while I would have been happy to finish the spar properly but for needing to step out for business, the event elicited a wonderful fight and a lot of great food and drink. It was wonderfully run and a joy to attend.
As to the dangers presented in the field, I can say from personal experience what happens on the sands and what happens in the field are very different. Worry not, he clearly knows how to fight smart.
As to the dangers presented in the field, I can say from personal experience what happens on the sands and what happens in the field are very different. Worry not, he clearly knows how to fight smart.
Written By Bashira
Aug. 8, 2018, 10:53 p.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Caspian
My brother surprised me with a wonderful creation. A bed for my room at the Wild House. I had been sleeping in a hammock when I was home. I'm just used to some things, don't ask. Good thing I had a comfortable bed to come home and cry on though. I'm sure the tear stains are easy to get out of seasilk? Maybe?
Thank you for all that you do for me, brother. Some day I will be able to repay you for all that you've done.
Thank you for all that you do for me, brother. Some day I will be able to repay you for all that you've done.
Written By Cambria
Aug. 8, 2018, 10:45 p.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
I have finally found a use for a particular goblet housed within the manor, one that has vexed me for some time...
It is the perfect size to bathe an eight-month old in.
To be sure, Damianos will outgrow his glamorous tub only all too soon, but for now, it is his and his alone.
As they say, revenge is sweet.
It is the perfect size to bathe an eight-month old in.
To be sure, Damianos will outgrow his glamorous tub only all too soon, but for now, it is his and his alone.
As they say, revenge is sweet.
Written By Vanora
Aug. 8, 2018, 9:32 p.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
I've been so exhausted. So. Exhausted. I'm sure some of it is the pregnancy and thus imagine it will be better relatively soon.
I'm growing concerned that we did not leave in time to get to Grihem's Point.
What I wish to write about however was the gathering we held to celebrate the new practice yard that was built in the Grimhall Longhouse. With men being such as they are, and with Valdemar likely to run drills with the Mirrorguard now and again too, it seemed good to have somewhere close to home.
It was not my crowning achievement as a hostess. There were some miscommunications about timing, and then about armor requirements (though I did try to make those clear on the invitations.) My father-in-law ended up unable to participate and I felt like I was running in circles. I did try to greet as many guests as I could, and thank them for attending, before the free for all was underway. It was chaotic, and I smiled to watch Valdemar do so well, but in the end the night was not his. One shift in footing is all it takes...and that frightens me to see actually happening before me. For it's easy then to imagine what they see when it is not a sparring ring, and one misstep does not lead one to have to yield, but leaves them dead.
Ugh, terrible, and morbid. My thoughts are racing, and I hope I'm able to settle them and get some sleep.
I'm growing concerned that we did not leave in time to get to Grihem's Point.
What I wish to write about however was the gathering we held to celebrate the new practice yard that was built in the Grimhall Longhouse. With men being such as they are, and with Valdemar likely to run drills with the Mirrorguard now and again too, it seemed good to have somewhere close to home.
It was not my crowning achievement as a hostess. There were some miscommunications about timing, and then about armor requirements (though I did try to make those clear on the invitations.) My father-in-law ended up unable to participate and I felt like I was running in circles. I did try to greet as many guests as I could, and thank them for attending, before the free for all was underway. It was chaotic, and I smiled to watch Valdemar do so well, but in the end the night was not his. One shift in footing is all it takes...and that frightens me to see actually happening before me. For it's easy then to imagine what they see when it is not a sparring ring, and one misstep does not lead one to have to yield, but leaves them dead.
Ugh, terrible, and morbid. My thoughts are racing, and I hope I'm able to settle them and get some sleep.
Written By Morrighan
Aug. 8, 2018, 8:08 p.m.(5/12/1009 AR)
I might actually get these clothes finished in a semi-timely manner, for once. Sometimes being finicky with my work is a double-edged sword; it’s ridiculously time consuming, and I feel bad for making my clients wait, but the results are always highly satisfactory. In the end the smiles of a happy customer and appreciation for their new attire is well worth the time spent on getting everything perfect.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.